AIR Conditioning (AC) units are a costly investment, and incur significant energy costs over their lifetime. However, with the right information, one can certainly choose wisely when deciding what type of unit to purchase; and once the purchase has been made, there are simple things that can be done to maximise energy efficiency, thereby saving on electricity costs.As Energy Week is being observed from November 8 to 14 under the theme “Empowering our Sustainable Development”, the Guyana Energy Agency is advising consumers to make wise decisions in their purchases, in order to promote quality and energy efficiency when purchasing an AC unit.

One underlying fact is that air conditioning (AC) aids significantly in cooling offices and homes, especially in tropical climes like Guyana, according to the Guyana Energy Agency (GEA). The agency noted that the upfront costs for a new energy-efficient air conditioner can be offset over time from the energy savings gained through lower energy bills, by choosing a high energy efficiency ratio (EER) and seasonal energy efficiency ratio (SEER) unit.

Public Communications Officer of the GEA, Taiwo Williams, explained that air conditioners, popularly known as AC units, keep a building cool by moving heat from inside the building to the outside. They blow cool air into a building or room by pulling the heat out of the air. The air is cooled by blowing it over a set of cold pipes, called an evaporator coil. This coil is filled with a special liquid, called a refrigerant, which changes from a liquid to a gas as it absorbs heat from the air. The refrigerant is then pumped outside the house to another coil, where it gives up its heat and changes back into a liquid. A pump, called a compressor, is used to move the refrigerant between the two coils, and to change the pressure of the refrigerant so that it evaporates or condenses in the appropriate coils.

Whether you are considering the first-time purchase of an AC unit or planning to replace your old one, there are tips that will help the atmosphere stay cool, save energy, and reduce utility bills.

The GEA noted that some of the steps that can be used include: investing in air conditioner units that have higher SEER/EER ratings from trusted manufacturers. ‘Energy Star’ certified air conditioners have a higher energy efficiency ratio (EER) and seasonal energy efficiency ratio (SEER) than standard models. This makes them about 14% more efficient.

“Choose the right size of unit. An air conditioner that is oversized for the area it is supposed to cool will perform less efficiently and less effectively than a smaller, properly sized unit. Locate the AC in an area near the centre of the room and on the shadiest side of the building.

Minimise air leakage by fitting the room air conditioner snugly into its opening and sealing gaps with a foam weather stripping material. Keep out direct sunlight, and close curtains or blinds during the day to reduce the amount of effort your air conditioner expends to keep your home/office cool, Williams emphasised.

It was further noted that computers and other home/office equipment also generate heat. The GEA said these equipment should be turned off when they are not in use. This will reduce the heat load on the system, and prevent the AC unit from using more energy for cooling.

“Make sure all doors and windows are sealed properly, to keep your energy consumption low. If the cool air your air conditioner is circulating into your home/office is escaping, your system will have to work harder and longer to keep you cool,” the GEA underscored.

“Setting your thermostat at a colder temperature than normal when you turn on your air conditioner will not cool your home or office any faster. This could result in excessive cooling, and therefore unnecessary expense. Replace or clean your window or central air conditioning filters at least once a month, or as directed by the manufacturer. Dirty filters restrict air flow and make air conditioners work harder to keep you cool,” the GEA advises.